The Bum's NFL December Best Bets !

[StarDust Bum]

Armadillo: Sunday's six-pack

Six most popular picks and six least popular picks in LVH handicapping contest, which has 700+ contestants, all of whom who pick five NFL games a week against the spread. They put up $1,500 each, so these are serious handicappers........

6) Minnesota Vikings, 154
5) Baltimore Ravens, 158
T3) Cleveland Browns, 159
T3) New England Patriots, 159
2) Cincinnati Bengals, 185
1) Carolina Panthers, 202

25) Miami Dolphins, 83
26) New Jersey Giants, 82
27) Kansas City Chiefs, 78
28) Jacksonville Jaguars, 75
29) Seattle Seahawks, 63
31) San Diego Chargers, 40

[3rdmckid]

thanks for the hard work !! I especially like to see the public betting trends you post on Sunday......Very nice !!!

[StarDust Bum]

Sunday, December 9

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Baltimore - 1:00 PM ET Baltimore +1 500 POD # 1
Washington - Under 47.5 500

Kansas City - 1:00 PM ET Cleveland -7 500
Cleveland - Under 38 500

San Diego - 1:00 PM ET San Diego +7 500
Pittsburgh - Under 38 500

Tennessee - 1:00 PM ET Tennessee +3.5 500
Indianapolis - Over 47 500

N.Y. Jets - 1:00 PM ET Jacksonville +2.5 500
Jacksonville - Under 39.5 500

Chicago - 1:00 PM ET Chicago -2.5 500
Minnesota - Over 40 500

Atlanta - 1:00 PM ET Atlanta -3 500 POD # 2
Carolina - Under 47 500

Philadelphia - 1:00 PM ET Tampa Bay -8 500
Tampa Bay - Over 48 500

St. Louis - 1:00 PM ET St. Louis +3 500 POD # 3
Buffalo - Under 42 500

Dallas - 1:00 PM ET Cincinnati -3.5 500
Cincinnati - Under 46 500

Miami - 4:05 PM ET San Francisco -10.5 500
San Francisco - Under 39 500 TOD

New Orleans - 4:25 PM ET N.Y. Giants -4.5 500
N.Y. Giants - Over 51 500

Arizona - 4:25 PM ET Seattle -10 500
Seattle - Under 36 500

Detroit - 8:20 PM ET Detroit +6.5 500
Green Bay - Over 49 500

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Monday, December 10

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Monday Night Football: Texans at Patriots
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Houston Texans at New England Patriots (-4, 50.5)

The Houston Texans have already wrapped up a playoff berth and are two games clear of the pack in the race for the top seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Still, despite the Texans' 11-1 record heading into Monday night's high-profile matchup at the New England Patriots, there is skepticism regarding Houston's legitimacy as a Super Bowl contender. Many of the doubts were spawned from another marquee night matchup, when the Texans were waylaid at home by Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers 42-24.

New England clinched the AFC East title last week and, like Houston, carries a six-game winning streak into Monday's matchup. The Patriots are battling division leaders Baltimore and Denver in the race for a first-round bye but could vault into the mix for the No. 1 seed by beating the Texans, who are 6-0 on the road.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE: Patriots -4, O/U 50.5

WEATHER: Forecasts are calling for temperatures in the high-40s with a 90 percent of rain. Winds will blow out of the SW at 6 mph.

ABOUT THE TEXANS (11-1): Houston can all but clinch the top seed with a victory, having already defeated division leaders Denver and Baltimore. The Texans, who will be playing their third straight road game, finally got their defense straightened out in last week's 24-10 win at Tennessee after surrendering a total of 68 points in the previous two games - both of which went to overtime. Quarterback Matt Schaub has won 15 of his last 16 starts and directs a balanced offense featuring an elite wide receiver in Andre Johnson and a powerful running game led by Arian Foster, who is 98 yards shy of his third straight 1,200-yard season. DE J.J. Watt has 16.5 sacks and leads a unit that yields an average of 18.4 points. Houston's injury-riddled secondary will be tested by the league's best offense.

ABOUT THE PATRIOTS (9-3): New England tops the league in scoring at 35.8 points (more than six better than runner-up Houston) but had its second-lowest offensive output in last week's 23-16 win in Miami. Tom Brady was sacked four times and threw only his fourth interception but became the first quarterback in league history to win 10 division titles. Brady, who celebrated the birth of a baby daughter Wednesday, has thrown for 15 touchdowns and one pick during the winning streak. Wes Walker had 12 receptions against Miami and will continue to see a heavy workload with fellow wideout Julian Edelman joining star tight end Rob Gronkowski on the sidelines with a season-ending foot injury. New England's pass defense has improved markedly since the acquisition of CB Aqib Talib from Tampa Bay.

TRENDS:

* Texans are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 10 vs. a team with a winning record.
* Texans are 0-4 ATS in their last four Monday games.
* Patriots are 4-0 ATS in their last four Monday games.
* Under is 5-1 in Texans’ last six December games.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. The Patriots have won 12 straight games in December and are 10-1 in their last 11 Monday night games.

2. Houston, which is averaging 33.7 points in its last three games, can clinch the AFC South title with a win and a loss or tie by Indianapolis.

3. Brady has thrown a TD pass in 44 consecutive games, the third-longest streak in league history.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Monday, December 10

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Tale of the tape: Texans at Patriots
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Offense

Houston, which is averaging 33.7 points over its last three games, is fourth in the league in total offense; the Patriots are first. The Texans boast a well-balanced attack led by RB Arian Foster, who leads the NFL with 15 touchdowns and the AFC with 1,102 yards rushing. Top receiver Andre Johnson is tied for fourth in the NFL with 1,114 yards receiving and is alone in fourth in the AFC with 74 catches.

New England tops the league in scoring at 35.8 points (more than six better than runner-up Houston) but had its second-lowest offensive output in last week's 23-16 win at Miami. Tom Brady was sacked four times and threw only his fourth interception. The Patriots will once again be without the services of Rob Gronkowski (forearm) but have Aaron Hernandez, who caught eight passes for 97 yards last week versus the Fish, to fill in.

Edge: Patriots


Defense

The Texans are without CB Brice McCain, their best slot defender, due to a broken foot and could march out top corner Johnathan Joseph at less than 100 percent. Joseph missed the last two games due to a tender hamstring and won’t get any favors from the cold and wet conditions expected to hit Gillette Stadium Monday night. Despite a beat up secondary, Houston has one of the toughest defenses in the league against the run and boasts pass-rush threat J.J. Watt.

New England's secondary was vulnerable to big plays early in the season and has allowed the fourth most yards passing in the NFL. But it has improved since Devin McCourty moved from cornerback to safety for the past six games and Aqib Talib was acquired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Edge: Texans


Special teams

Rookie returner Keshawn Martin, who inherited duties on both kickoffs and punts after the Texans released Trindon Holliday after Week 5, is fourth in the league in punt-return average at 14.3 yards, and 21st in kickoff returns (24.1).

The Patriots special teams will suffer without Julian Edelman, who will be sidelined with a season-ending foot injury. Edelman split time as the third receiver this year and was a terror on special teams. He had 21 receptions, three touchdowns and also a 68-yard punt return for a touchdown. The loss of Edelman could mean a heavier workload for Wes Welker as a punt returner. Welker filled in for three weeks earlier this season when Edelman missed time with a hand injury.

Edge: Texans


Word on the street

“I think he’s extremely athletic for such a big man. Heck, I just left a special teams meeting and watched him rush a punter. There’s no telling how he’s going to be involved in the game, but he’s a huge factor week in and week out. He plays all over the place, so all of our guys will probably go against him upfront somehow, someway because of the many places that he plays." -- Texans head coach Gary Kubiak on Patriots DT Vince Wilfork.

"They're a very well-balanced team. If you're stopping the run, you're light on the play-action (passing attack). If you're stopping the play-action, you're probably light on the run. They do a good job of tying those plays together, complementing each other and making you defend all of it." -- Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the Houston offense.

[StarDust Bum]

Monday, December 10

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Houston - 8:30 PM ET Houston +5.5 500

New England - Over 50.5 500

[StarDust Bum]

Eagles Go For Second Straight Win Thursday Against Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals at Philadelphia Eagles
NFL Betting Preview
Date: 12/13/2012 at 8:20 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Bengals -3, O/U 46
Television: NFL Network

Cincinnati Bengals: A nine-point 4th-quarter lead wasn't enough for the Bengals (7-6 straight-up, 6-6-1 against the spread) to hold off the Dallas Cowboys in a 20-19 Week 14 loss. Cincinnati outgained the Cowboys thanks to nearly a 100-yard edge in rushing, but the defense allowed Dallas to convert 11-of-19 third-down tries, including 6-of-7 in the decisive fourth quarter. The loss snapped a four-game win and cover streak for Cincy, leaving the Bengals tied with the Steelers for second in the AFC North, each two back of the Ravens. Andy Dalton ranks 12th in the NFL with a 90.3 quarterback rating and crossed over the 3,000-yard plateau with his 20-of-33 effort for 206 yards vs. Dallas. Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis ranks 11th in rushing and needs just 26 more yards to reach the 1,000-yard mark for the second time in his career. The Bengals are 8-5 "under" on the season after their last five contests all fell short of the total, and the last meeting between these teams, a 13-13 tie at Cincinnati in 2008, also finished below the mark.

Philadelphia Eagles: While Cincy hits the road off a disappointing loss, the Eagles (4-9 SU, 3-9-1 ATS) return home on a high following a rally at Tampa Bay that ended with a 23-21 victory to stop an eight-game losing streak. Rookie QB Nick Foles, making just his fourth NFL start, was the hero with two touchdown passes in the final four minutes, the second coming as the game clock ran out. Foles finished the day 32-of-51 for 381 yards to lead the upset as 7-point underdogs. The Eagles were once again playing without running back LeSean McCoy, who is doubtful for Thursday's tilt while he recovers from a concussion suffered at Washington in Week 11 (click to check updated NFL injury report). Rookie RB Bryce Brown had played well the previous two games filling in for McCoy but was held to just six yards on 12 carries against Tampa Bay's top-ranked run defense. Also doubtful on Thursday is tight end Brent Celek, who left the Tampa Bay game due to a concussion. The Eagles have failed to cover their last five home games vs. Cincinnati, and the Bengals have covered the last five meetings overall in this series.

[StarDust Bum]

Bengals at Eagles

December 12, 2012


Philadelphia has been the NFL’s most disappointing team by far. The Eagles are mired in the basement of the NFC East cellar, watching their division cohorts fight it out while their long-time head coach is a lame duck.

Andy Reid’s three biggest stars – quarterback Michael Vick, RB LeSean McCoy and WR DeShaun Jackson, the team leaders in passing, rushing and receiving – won’t be in uniform when his team hosts Cincinnati on Thursday night at Lincoln Financial Field.

As of Wednesday afternoon, most books were listing the Bengals as four-point favorites with a total of 45 ½. Gamblers can take the Eagles on the money line for a plus-180 return (risk $100 to win $180).

Cincinnati (7-6 straight up, 6-6-1 against the spread) saw its four-game winning streak both SU and ATS halted in last week’s 20-19 home loss to Dallas as a 3 ½-point ‘chalk.’ After settling for four Josh Brown field goals, including three from inside of 33 yards, Marvin Lewis’s squad let a 19-10 advantage get away in the final stanza.

Tony Romo connected with Dez Bryant on a 27-yard scoring strike with 6:44 remaining to cut the deficit to 19-17. Then with four ticks left, Dan Bailey buried a 40-yard field goal to lift the Cowboys into the win column.

Andy Dalton completed 20-of-33 passes for 206 yards with one touchdown pass and one interception. BenJarvus Green-Ellis rushed for 89 yards on just 12 carries.

For the season, Dalton is connecting on 63.4 percent of his throws and has a 90.3 QB rating. The TCU product has thrown for 3,186 yards with a 25/14 touchdown-interception ratio.

Dalton’s favorite target is second-year WR A.J. Green, who is looking to bounce back from a poor performance against Dallas. The University of Georgia product has 79 receptions for 1,151 yards and 10 TDs.

Green-Ellis has rushed for a team-high 974 yards and five TDs with 4.1 yards-per-carry average.

Philadelphia (4-9 SU, 3-9-1 ATS) ended its eight-game losing streak by winning a 23-21 decision at Tampa Bay last week as an eight point underdog. Rookie QB Nick Foles found Jeremy Maclin in the end zone for a one-yard TD pass on the final play of the game. The Eagles hooked up money-line backers with a plus-320 payout (paid $320 on $100 wagers).

Foles played his best game to date, completing 32-of-51 passes for 381 yards and two TDs without an interception. Foles also rushed for 27 yards and one TD on just three carries.

Maclin finished with nine catches for 104 yards against the Bucs, while Jason Avant had seven receptions for 133 yards.

Since taking over for Vick, Foles has started four games and thrown for 1,174 yards with a 4/3 TD-INT ratio.

Philadelphia has lost four in a row at home since beating both the Ravens and Giants back in September. Even worse, the Eagles are an atrocious 0-5-1 ATS at home. Since 2004, they have limped to an abysmal 3-9 spread record in 12 games as home underdogs.

Cincinnati has thrived on the road this year, compiling a 4-2 record both SU and ATS. During Lewis’s 10-year tenure, the Bengals are 14-11-1 as road favorites.

This is a crucial game for Cincy, which is tied with the Steelers for the final wild-card spot in the AFC. To close the regular season, the Bengals will play at Pittsburgh next week before hosting Baltimore in their regular-season finale.

The ‘under’ has cashed in five straight games for the Bengals and eight of their last 10. Cincy has watched the ‘under’ go 8-5 overall, 3-3 in its six road assignments.

The ‘under’ is 7-6 overall for the Eagles, but the ‘over’ has hit at a lucrative 5-1 clip in their six home games.

Dating back to 1988, the Bengals have covered the number in six consecutive head-to-head meetings against the Eagles. In the last encounter in 2008, these clubs battled to a 13-13 tie with Cincinnati taking the cash as a 9 ½-point road underdog. This was the infamous game in which Donovan McNabb told the media at the post-game presser that he didn’t know there were ties in the NFL.

The NFL Network will provide television coverage at 8:25 p.m. Eastern.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

--Cincinnati could be without a pair of key defensive players at Philadelphia. Rookie CB Dre Kirkpatrick is ‘questionable’ after sustaining a concussion two weeks ago, and starting DE Michael Johnson is also a question mark due to a foot injury.

--In addition to Vick, Jackson and McCoy, the Eagles will also be without veteran TE Brent Celek (concussion) and DT Mike Patterson (pneumonia).

--In addition to the Eagles, there are five more home underdogs on the Week 15 card: Bears (+3 vs. Green Bay), Ravens (+2.5 vs. Denver), Bills (+5 vs. Seahawks), Cowboys (+1.5 vs. Pittsburgh) and Cardinals (+6 vs. Detroit).

--The Giants have won four in a row over Atlanta, including a 24-2 beatdown in last season’s playoffs. The Falcons can exact a small measure of revenge against the G-Men when they collide Sunday at the Ga. Dome. Mike Smith’s team is a 1 ½-point favorite.

--Even with last week’s outright loss to Philadelphia, Tampa Bay maintains the NFL’s best spread record (9-3-1 ATS).

--Despite suffering a torn ACL last December, Minnesota RB Adrian Peterson has rushed for an NFL-best 1,600 rushing yards. The league’s second-leading rusher is Seattle’s Marshawn Lynch, who is 334 yards behind Peterson.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL odds: Week 15 opening line report

The average NFL bettor has a very short memory. What happened on Sunday has bigger sway over their bets than a team’s season-long resume.

The Atlanta Falcons, who boast the NFC’s best record at 11-2 SU, just suffered their second loss of the year in a 30-20 beatdown courtesy of the Carolina Panthers in Week 14.

Atlanta, which has already won the NFC South and earned a spot in the postseason, is a 1-point home favorite in Week 15 hosting the New York Giants, who just rolled the Falcons’ division rivals, the New Orleans Saints, 52-27 this past Sunday.

“We don’t want to forget just how good Atlanta is,” Peter Korner, founder of the Nevada-based odds service The Sports Club, told Covers. “Atlanta is more than capable here. They’ve come back to earth a little bit, but they’re already in the playoffs. This would be a perfect game for them to get hot at the right time.”

Korner’s stable of oddsmakers sent out the Falcons as suggested 2.5-point favorites and it appears that is where the early sharp money is taking the spread. Some books opened this game as low as a pick’em. That line has moved as high as -2 at some online markets.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Dallas Cowboys (Pick, 44.5)

This classic NFL grudge match features two teams scrambling for postseason spots. Dallas is back home after a nail-biting win in Cincinnati while the Steelers leave behind a shocking home loss to San Diego this past weekend.

Pittsburgh welcomed back starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who missed the previous three games with rib and shoulder injuries. Outside of a late push, Roethlisberger was rusty and finished the day 22 for 45 passing and committed two turnovers. The Steelers managed just three points in the first half.

“This is what can happen when a key player is out and comes back at an important time,” says Korner. “When you bring a key player back, it can sometimes be disruptive. Not to say (Roethlisberger) isn't their best option, but the timing is off and it will take a while to get that back. He hasn't practiced much since the injury.”

San Francisco 49ers at New England Patriots (-3, 48)

New England opened as a field-goal favorite for Week 15 but that spread will make a move depending on how things play out for the Patriots versus the Texans on Monday Night Football.

Korner says it could go as high as -4 if New England has a strong showing versus Houston and could see this hovering around -3 if they don’t.

“As far as positioning goes, this isn’t a conference game. And at the end of the year, both teams could be thinking about staying healthy for the playoffs,” says Korner. “This could also be a slight letdown for the Patriots, depending on Monday’s result.”

Seattle Seahawks vs. Buffalo Bills (+4, 42.5)

The Bills cross the border for what is supposed to be a home game. However, Korner doesn’t factor in the home–field edge as much for this showdown in Toronto.

“When we talk about home-field advantage, we don’t really talk about the fans,” he says. “We’re thinking more about preparation and travel. When the game starts, the fans don’t really matter.”

Buffalo loses a home game in the December cold of Ralph Wilson Stadium and trades that for the echoing confines of the Rogers Centre, a domed environment not known as a great football venue.

The Bills don’t have much incentive heading into Week 15 while the Seahawks have won four of their last five, including a 58-0 demolition of Arizona Sunday. Korner’s stable of oddsmakers sent out Seattle -6 as the suggested spread for this game.

“We were thinking Seattle -3 while we watched the Seahawks game on Sunday,” he says. “Then they kept racking up the points. We just had to shoot (the spread) up.”

[StarDust Bum]

NFL
Dunkel

Week 15

Cincinnati at Philadelphia
The Bengals look to build on their 4-1 ATS record in their last 5 road games. Cincinnati is the pick (-3 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Bengals favored by 5 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (-3 1/2). Here are all of this week's picks.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13

Game 301-302: Cincinnati at Philadelphia (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati 134.088; Philadelphia 128.476
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 5 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 3 1/2; 46
Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (-3 1/2); Under


SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16

Game 303-304: Green Bay at Chicago (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Green Bay 132.138; Chicago 138.833
Dunkel Line: Chicago by 6 1/2; 46
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 3; 42
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+3); Over

Game 305-306: NY Giants at Atlanta (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Giants 136.551; Atlanta 140.528
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 4; 47
Vegas Line: Atlanta by 1; 51
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (-1); Under

Game 307-308: Tampa Bay at New Orleans (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay 135.326; New Orleans 132.828
Dunkel Line: Tampa Bay by 2 1/2; 58
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 3 1/2; 53 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (+3 1/2); Over

Game 309-310: Minnesota at St. Louis (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 125.974; St. Louis 135.615
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 9 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: St. Louis by 1; 38
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-1); Over

Game 311-312: Washington at Cleveland (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 135.157; Cleveland 131.638
Dunkel Line: Washington by 3 1/2; 37
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 313-314: Jacksonville at Miami (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Jacksonville 124.161; Miami 119.081
Dunkel Line: Miami by 5; 42
Vegas Line: Miami by 7; 37
Dunkel Pick: Jacksonville (+7); Over

Game 315-316: Denver at Baltimore (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Denver 138.882; Baltimore 138.990
Dunkel Line: Even; 44
Vegas Line: Denver by 3; 48
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+3); Under

Game 317-318: Indianapolis at Houston (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Indianapolis 129.230; Houston 140.439
Dunkel Line: Houston by 11; 45
Vegas Line: Houston by 7 1/2; 48
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-7 1/2); Under

Game 319-320: Carolina at San Diego (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 130.645; San Diego 130.390
Dunkel Line: Even; 51
Vegas Line: San Diego by 3; 45
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+3); Over

Game 321-322: Seattle at Buffalo (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle 138.522; Buffalo 129.411
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 9; 39
Vegas Line: Seattle by 5; 43
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-5); Under

Game 323-324: Detroit at Arizona (4:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 129.120; Arizona 125.470
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 3 1/2; 48
Vegas Line: Detroit by 6; 43 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (+6); Over

Game 325-326: Pittsburgh at Dallas (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 129.619; Dallas 134.881
Dunkel Line: Dallas by 5 1/2; 40
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 2; 44
Dunkel Pick: Dallas (+2); Under

Game 327-328: Kansas City at Oakland (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 124.761; Oakland 122.374
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 2 1/2; 46
Vegas Line: Oakland by 3; 43
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (+3); Over

Game 329-330: San Francisco at New England (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco 138.793; New England 150.743
Dunkel Line: New England by 12; 45
Vegas Line: New England by 5; 47 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New England (-5); Under


MONDAY, DECEMBER 17

Game 331-332: NY Jets at Tennessee (8:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Jets 127.362; Tennessee 127.415
Dunkel Line: Even; 45
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 2; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Jets (+2); Over

[StarDust Bum]

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 15

Thursday, December 13

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CINCINNATI (7 - 6) at PHILADELPHIA (4 - 9) - 12/13/2012, 8:20 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) against NFC East division opponents since 1992.
PHILADELPHIA is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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Sunday, December 16

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GREEN BAY (9 - 4) at CHICAGO (8 - 5) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 148-107 ATS (+30.3 Units) in games played on a grass field since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 53-31 ATS (+18.9 Units) in December games since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 55-33 ATS (+18.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 50-28 ATS (+19.2 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
GREEN BAY is 4-2 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
GREEN BAY is 5-1 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NY GIANTS (8 - 5) at ATLANTA (11 - 2) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY GIANTS are 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
NY GIANTS are 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in road games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
NY GIANTS are 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
NY GIANTS are 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY GIANTS is 1-0 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
NY GIANTS is 1-0 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TAMPA BAY (6 - 7) at NEW ORLEANS (5 - 8) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) in dome games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in home games in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 23-45 ATS (-26.5 Units) in home games versus division opponents since 1992.
NEW ORLEANS is 20-40 ATS (-24.0 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
NEW ORLEANS is 13-27 ATS (-16.7 Units) in home games in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ORLEANS is 3-2 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 3-2 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MINNESOTA (7 - 6) at ST LOUIS (6 - 6 - 1) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 92-125 ATS (-45.5 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 46-68 ATS (-28.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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WASHINGTON (7 - 6) at CLEVELAND (5 - 8) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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JACKSONVILLE (2 - 11) at MIAMI (5 - 8) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 39-59 ATS (-25.9 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
MIAMI is 47-71 ATS (-31.1 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
MIAMI is 42-63 ATS (-27.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
MIAMI is 24-41 ATS (-21.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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DENVER (10 - 3) at BALTIMORE (9 - 4) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 14-3 ATS (+10.7 Units) in home games against AFC West division opponents since 1992.
DENVER is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as a favorite this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 1-0 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
BALTIMORE is 1-0 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INDIANAPOLIS (9 - 4) at HOUSTON (11 - 2) - 12/16/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
HOUSTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANAPOLIS is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
INDIANAPOLIS is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 2-2 against the spread versus INDIANAPOLIS over the last 3 seasons
HOUSTON is 2-2 straight up against INDIANAPOLIS over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CAROLINA (4 - 9) at SAN DIEGO (5 - 8) - 12/16/2012, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CAROLINA is 46-25 ATS (+18.5 Units) in December games since 1992.
CAROLINA is 64-38 ATS (+22.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
CAROLINA is 43-22 ATS (+18.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1992.
SAN DIEGO is 0-7 ATS (-7.7 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SEATTLE (8 - 5) vs. BUFFALO (5 - 8) - 12/16/2012, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 52-80 ATS (-36.0 Units) off a division game since 1992.
SEATTLE is 12-25 ATS (-15.5 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1992.
SEATTLE is 21-42 ATS (-25.2 Units) off a win against a division rival since 1992.
SEATTLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
SEATTLE is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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DETROIT (4 - 9) at ARIZONA (4 - 9) - 12/16/2012, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 21-40 ATS (-23.0 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
DETROIT is 42-63 ATS (-27.3 Units) as a favorite since 1992.
DETROIT is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) in road games against NFC West division opponents since 1992.
ARIZONA is 38-22 ATS (+13.8 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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PITTSBURGH (7 - 6) at DALLAS (7 - 6) - 12/16/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 16-28 ATS (-14.8 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 16-28 ATS (-14.8 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games this season.
DALLAS is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home lined games this season.
DALLAS is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in games played on turf this season.
DALLAS is 30-49 ATS (-23.9 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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KANSAS CITY (2 - 11) at OAKLAND (3 - 10) - 12/16/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 36-67 ATS (-37.7 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 since 1992.
OAKLAND is 11-25 ATS (-16.5 Units) as a home favorite of 3 points or less since 1992.
OAKLAND is 20-40 ATS (-24.0 Units) in home games versus division opponents since 1992.
OAKLAND is 25-47 ATS (-26.7 Units) in December games since 1992.
OAKLAND is 15-29 ATS (-16.9 Units) in home games after 2 or more consecutive losses since 1992.
OAKLAND is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 14-35 ATS (-24.5 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1992.
OAKLAND is 24-45 ATS (-25.5 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 4-1 against the spread versus KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
OAKLAND is 4-1 straight up against KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SAN FRANCISCO (9 - 3 - 1) at NEW ENGLAND (10 - 3) - 12/16/2012, 8:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games in December games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points this season.
NEW ENGLAND is 50-30 ATS (+17.0 Units) in December games since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 93-67 ATS (+19.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 65-40 ATS (+21.0 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 49-28 ATS (+18.2 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
SAN FRANCISCO is 20-10 ATS (+9.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 20-10 ATS (+9.0 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-22 ATS (-16.2 Units) in a home game where the total is between 45.5 and 49 points since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

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Monday, December 17

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NY JETS (6 - 7) at TENNESSEE (4 - 9) - 12/17/2012, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TENNESSEE is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

[StarDust Bum]

NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 15

Bengals (7-6) @ Eagles (4-9)—Tend to favor contending team in these short-week games, since injured guys more likely to suck it up and play, but Cincy gagged away game with Dallas last week, ending 4-game win streak; AJ Green caught three balls for 44 yards, dropped two passes in clutch spots that cost Bengals four points each in game they should’ve won. Bengals won last two road games, didn’t allow offensive TD on 21 drives; they are 3-3 as favorite this year, 1-1 on road. Since 2010, they’re 4-2-1 as road favorites. Iggles snapped 8-game skid with win at Tampa Sun day, scoring on last play of game; they’ve lost last four home games, allowing 31 ppg (13 TD’s/43 drives). Cincy leads this series 7-3-1, are 4-3 here; last time these teams met was 13-13 tie in ’08, last NFL tie until Rams-Niners last month. AFC North favorites are 9-11 vs spread, 4-4 on road; NFC East underdogs are 10-5, 1-2 at home. Last five Bengal games stayed under; five of six Philly home games went over.

Packers (9-4) @ Bears (8-5)— Bears are 5-2 at home, and division lead is at stake here, but these are two teams going in opposite directions. Green Bay (-6) beat Bears 23-10 in Week 2 Thursday nighter, picking off four passes, holding Cutler to 11-27/74 passing; it was 7th win in last eight meetings in this ancient rivalry. Pack won three of last four visits here, winning 21-14/27-17 in last two. Pack won seven of last eight games, taking three of last four on road after losing first two away games- they’re 6-5 as favorites this year, 2-2 on road; since ’07, they’re 16-12 as road favorites, 9-4 in divisional games. GB ran ball for 152-140 yards last two weeks, converted 14-27 on 3rd down. Chicago is now 7-16 without Urlacher; they’ve lost four of last five games overall, allowing 176-171 rushing yards last two weeks. NFC North home favorites are 4-3 vs the spread. Last four Green Bay games stayed under the total.

Giants (8-5) @ Falcons (11-2)—Giants are 8-0 when they score 26+ points, 0-5 when they don’t; would expect strong effort for hosts after they got pasted at Carolina last week. Atlanta allowed 30+ points in both losses, but held six of last nine opponents to 20 or less points; they’re 6-0 at home, with five of six wins by 6 or less points. Falcons were held under 80 yards rushing in four of last five games; would expect them to try and run it here more (Giants allowed 207-142 rushing yards last two games). Giants are 3-3 on road, scoring 13-16 points in last two (two offensive TD’s on 20 drives)- they’re +5 in turnovers last three weeks, +16 for season. Big Blue whacked Atlanta 24-2 in LY’s playoffs, fourth straight series win (average score 29-14); Giants won last seven visits to Atlanta (last here in ’04), with last loss here at old Fulton County Stadium in ’78. Four of last five Giant games, three of last four Atlanta games stayed under the total. Underdogs are 13-4 vs spread in NFC East non-divisional road tilts. NFC South home teams are 6-11 against spread out of their division.

Buccaneers (6-7) @ Saints (5-8)—Both teams lost last three games, as playoff hopes slip away; Saints (-1.5) escaped Tampa with 35-28 back in Week 7, when Bucs’ tying TD on last play was waved off because WR stepped OB earlier on his route. Bucs outgained NO 513-458 that day; Freeman was 24-42/415 passing. This season series has split in each of last four years; Bucs are 3-2 in last five visits here. Tampa is 5-2 as underdogs this year, 3-0 on artificial turf; they’ve won three of last four road games SU. Saints allowed 35.3 ppg last three weeks; they’ve won three of last four home games, covered last four games as a favorite (4-3 for year). Brees threw nine picks in last three games, as -6 turnover ratio in those games doomed playoffs chances on Bourbon Street. NO had 30-yard disadvantage in field position last week, which doesn’t count KR they allowed for TD. NFC South home teams are 5-3 vs spread. Three of last four Tampa games stayed under total; four of Saints’ last five games went over.

Vikings (7-6) @ Rams (6-6-1)—St Louis is getting most out of team with limited offense, winning last three games despite scoring three offensive TDs (defense also scored three); Fisher’s spunky bunch is 6-1 vs spread this year in games with spread of 4 or less points. Rams are 4-2 at home, 0-1 as favorites; their home wins are by 3-6-14-3 points. Since 2004, Rams are just 8-18 vs spread as home favorites. Minnesota is 1-5 on road, 1-3 as road dogs; they didn’t scored offensive TD (had two return TD’s) in only road win, 20-13 at Detroit in Week 4. Since 2008, Vikings are 10-15-1 as road dogs. Vikes are 2-3 in five visits here, with coming in ’09; average total in last eight series games, 57.1. NFC West home favorites are 6-4 vs spread. NFC North road dogs are 1-5. Last three Minnesota games stayed under; five of last seven Ram games went over (last two stayed under). Rams are 4-2 SU (5-1 vs spread) when game stayed under, 2-4-1 SU (4-3 vs spread) when it goes over.

Redskins (7-6) @ Browns (5-8)—Health of RGIII (knee) key issue here, since rookie Cousins gets first NFL start if Griffin can’t go. Washington won/covered last four games, beating three division rivals and regional rival Ravens, with Cousins leading tying drive in last minute last week. Skins are 3-3 on road, 4-1 as road underdogs, with five of six games going over total- their road losses are by 3-4-15 points. Redskins averaged 168.2 rushing ypg in last five games, but lot of that was RGIII’s mobility on read option plays- Cousins won’t be doing that. Browns gave up 80-yard run on first play last week but then blanked Chiefs rest of way- they’re 2-0 vs spread as favorites this year (last two games). Cleveland won/covered its last three games, allowing 12.7 ppg (4 TD’s on 36 drives); they won four of last five games, are 5-3 SU since 0-5 start. NFC East road underdogs are 8-3 vs spread. AFC North home favorites are 5-7. Under is 6-0-1 in Browns’ last seven games.

Jaguars (2-10) @ Dolphins (5-8)— Miami lost five of last six games after 4-3 start; only two of its five wins are by more than 4 points. Dolphins are 0-3 as favorites this year; since ’03, they’re 8-33 vs spread as a home favorite. Yes, 8-33. Jax is 5-1 vs spread on road, despite winning only one of six games; their road losses are by 3-3-9-6-16 points; only win was 22-17 at Indy, when they hit 80-yard TD pass in last 2:00. Only non-cover was 34-18 at Buffalo in last road game, two weeks ago. Jags are just 3-26 on 3rd down in last two years; they’ve been outsacked 14-2 last three games. Home team lost last three series games, with average total 30.7; Jaguars won 24-10 in only visit here, in 2006. Under is 6-2-1 in last nine Dolphin games, 1-3 in Jaguars’ last four road games. In fairness, Miami’s last three games were vs Seattle-49ers-Patriots, three playoff teams, but hard to endorse them laying seven points. AFC East favorites are 10-7 vs spread, 6-5 at home.AFC South underdogs are 11-12, 6-7 on the road.

Broncos (10-3) @ Ravens (9-4)—A winning team firing its OC on December 10, after game where Ravens scored 28 points, but defense gave up tying score in last minute? All is not well in Baltimore, where eight of 13 Raven games were decided by 3 or less points. New OC Caldwell (former Colt coach) has never called plays at this level, bad news vs Denver team that won its last eight games (6-2 vs spread) after 2-3 start vs brutal schedule. Broncos are 5-2 SU on road, 3-1 vs spread as road favorites. Ravens are 5-1 at home, losing only to rival Steelers; they’re 1-2 as underdogs this year. Since 2003, they’re 5-7 as home dogs, but this is first time since ’09 they’re in that role. Denver kept four of last five opponents under 75 rushing yards; curious to see how Ravens’ offense is different this week. Five of six Raven home games went over total, as did six of last nine Denver games. You knew Ravens had issues when they split pair of 3-point decisions with Big Ben-less Steelers.

Colts (9-4) @ Texans (11-2)—Storybook Colts won three in row, seven of last eight games; seven of their nine wins are by 4 or less points, or in OT. Three of their four losses are by 20+ points. Indy is just 2-3 as road underdogs this year; that includes wild 35-33 comeback win over Lions (two TDs in last 2:39) two weeks ago. Short week for hosts after Monday night debacle in Foxboro; they crushed the Ravens week after their first loss. Since ’09, Houston is 12-10-1 vs spread in game following a loss. Texans are 4-2 as home favorites, losing to Packers, winning at home by 20-24-30-12-6 points. Indy has three return TDs in last five games, but 18 of their last 21 offensive TDs came on drives of 74+ yards. Houston clinches division with win here, could blow #1 seed in AFC with loss; they’re 3-17 all-time vs Indy, but won last two meetings here, 34-24/34-7. AFC South home teams are 2-7 against spread, 1-4 when favored. Three of last four games for both sides went over the total.

Panthers (4-9) @ Chargers (5-8)—Carolina coach Rivera came to Panthers from San Diego; now both staffs are likely to be unemployed in three weeks. Panthers split last six games after 1-5 start; they won two of last three road games, covered four of last five- their road losses are by 6-2-1-6 points. As bad as they are, Carolina was favorite in three of first six road games- they’re 3-0 as road underdogs. San Diego had unlikely win at Pittsburgh last week; hard to tell how much of a carrot potential 8-8 finish is to players. Chargers lost four of last five home games, scoring one offensive TD on last 22 home drives- they’re 4-3 as favorites this year, 2-2 at home, Since 2010, Bolts are 10-8 as home favorites. Home side lost three of four in seldom-played series; Panthers won both visits here, 26-7/26-24. NFC South road underdogs are 9-3 vs spread. AFC West favorites are 6-5 against spread, 4-3 at home. 7 of last 10 San Diego games, four of last five Carolina games went over the total.

Seahawks (8-5) vs Bills (5-8) (Toronto)—Seattle heads to Canada winners in four of last five games, but they’re 2-5 on road, winning 16-12 (+3) at 4-9 Carolina in Week 5, 23-17 (OT, +3) at skidding Bears two weeks ago. All seven Seahawks road games were decided by 7 or less points. Marshawn Lynch will be fired up to run pigskin against his old team; Seattle ran ball for 176-284 yards last two weeks. Bills held last four opponents under 90 rushing yards- their goal here has to do same with Lynch and make rookie QB Wilson beat them passing, which he hasn’t been that good at on road, averaging 17 ppg on road (21-23 in last two away games). Buffalo lost five of last seven games after hopeful 3-3 start; they blanked Redskins in Toronto LY, snapping 3-game skid north of border. Bills are 2-5 vs spread as underdog this year; they’re 11-16-3 vs spread in last 30 games vs NFC teams. Five of last six Seattle games went over total; only one of Buffalo’s last four games did. Average total in last seven series games is 47.6. NFC West favorites are 8-6; AFC East underdogs are 8-8.

Lions (4-9) @ Cardinals (4-9)—Detroit tied NFL record last week by losing third game in row, when they led by 10+ points in all three games; good news is they led by 10+ points- if they get up 10 on Arizona, how can inept Redbirds come back? Cardinals do not have NFL-level QB on their roster; they were down 38-0 at half last week in Seattle, their ninth loss in row after 4-0 start. Arizona has five TDs on last 78 drives, while allowing five return TDs during same span- they’re 5-4 vs spread as a dog this year, and are 3-3 SU at home. Lions lost five games in row, allowing 32 ppg in last three- they’re 2-5 on road, winning by 3 at Philly, 17 at Jax’ville. Detroit is 2-5 as favorite this year; over last 11 years, they’re 2-6-2 vs spread when favored on foreign soil. Lions lost last five visits to desert; their only win here was in ’93. Seems like long time ago (Week 2) Arizona beat the Patriots in Foxboro. NFC North favorites are 10-13 vs spread, 4-3 on road. NFC West underdogs are 13-6 vs spread, 4-1 at home. If you wager on this game, report directly to your nearest GA meeting.

Steelers (7-6) @ Cowboys (7-6)—Dallas is 2-6 vs spread when favored this year, 0-5 at home; since start of 2010, they’re 3-16 vs spread as a home favorite, but they’ve won three of last four games overall, despite being outscored 71-23 in first half of those games. Dallas scored average of 23.4 ppg, just in second half of last five games. Free-falling Steelers (lost three of last four games) allowed Chargers to convert 12-22 on 3rd down last week in ugly 34-24 home loss (San Diego had converted 10 of previous 43 3rd downs coming in). Pittsburgh ran ball for 71.3 ypg last three weeks; even Big Ben’s return didn’t help. Underdogs covered last six Steeler games; Pitt is 3-4 SU on road, 2-1 as road dogs, losing away games by 12-3-3-6 points. Teams split 30 series games, but Steelers won last two 24-20/20-13, and won two of three Super Bowl meetings, but they’ve lost seven of last nine visits here. Four of last five Dallas home games went over the total. NFC East home favorites are 5-8 vs spread; AFC North underdogs are 6-8 against the spread, 3-6 on foreign soil.

Chiefs (2-11) @ Raiders (3-10)—Never thought I’d see day where these two teams are among NFL’s worst. Visitors won 10 of last 11 series games; Chiefs won eight of last nine visits here, but lost nine of last 10 games overall, losing last four away games by 28-18-3-23 points. KC is 2-4 as a road underdog this year, after being 21-14-1 from 2007-11. Oakland lost last six (0-6 vs spread) games, scoring 13.3 ppg in last three games; they’re 0-3 as favorites this year; since 2003, they’re 8-22 vs spread when favored at home. Raiders’ wins this year are by 3-10-3 points, so difficult to lay FG. Chiefs’ offense is horrific, scoring 13 or less points in five of last six games; they’ve scored six TDs on last 61 drives. Last three Oakland games, four of Chiefs’ last five games stayed under the total. Road teams covered six of nine AFC West divisional games; home favorites are 2-3. Much like the Detroit-Arizona game, not much to choose from here.

49ers (9-3-1) @ Patriots (10-3)—New England off impressive thrashing of Texans Monday night; they have to keep going, since Broncos are on their tail for #2 seed in AFC, which brings first-round bye in playoffs. Patriots won last seven games, covered three of last four; they’re 3-3 as home favorites, winning last five games in Foxboro by 10-3-6-35-28 points. Pats scored 11 TDs on last 21 drives at home, against teams with combined record of 20-6. 49ers are 4-2 on road, with both losses in domes (Vikings/Rams); they scored 13-3-13 points in three losses, 24 in their tie. Patriots held last three opponents under 20 points, but they’re hardly dominant defensive team, instead relying on takeaways (+24 turnover margin). 49ers are 4-1-1 vs spread last six times they were an underdog. Brady is from northern California, so this game figures to be special for him. 10 of last 11 Patriot games, four of last five Niner games went over the total. AFC East favorites are 10-7 vs spread, 6-5 at home. NFC West road dogs are 9-5.

Jets (6-7) @ Titans (5-8)—As bad as the Jets have been, as awful as their QB play has been, they close with Titans-Chargers-Bills; its not impossible they could still make playoffs. Go figure. Gang Green won three of last four games, allowing 13 or less points in all three wins; they’re 3-3 on road, losing at Pitt-Foxboro-Seattle. Tennessee lost four of last six games, as young QB Locker gets experience; he’s kind of a right-handed Tebow, athletic as hell, not an accurate passer. Titans are 2-4 at home, with both wins by a FG (Lions/Steelers). Jets ran ball for 177-166 yards last two games, as they try to take pressure off Sanchez, who has horrible set of WRs; expect more of same here. Jets won five of last six series games, winning three of four here, but last of those was in ’08. AFC East road underdogs are 5-7 vs spread; AFC South home favorites are 5-1. Did you know before the Jets were the Jets, they were the New York Titans?

[StarDust Bum]

NFL

Week 15

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Trend Report
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Thursday, December 13

8:20 PM
CINCINNATI vs. PHILADELPHIA
Cincinnati is 2-3-1 SU in its last 6 games ,when playing Philadelphia
Cincinnati is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Philadelphia is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games
Philadelphia is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games


Sunday, December 16

1:00 PM
INDIANAPOLIS vs. HOUSTON
Indianapolis is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Houston
Indianapolis is 3-11 SU in its last 14 games on the road
Houston is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 7 games when playing at home against Indianapolis

1:00 PM
NY GIANTS vs. ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Giants last 5 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
NY Giants are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
JACKSONVILLE vs. MIAMI
Jacksonville is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Jacksonville is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Miami's last 13 games at home
Miami is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games

1:00 PM
GREEN BAY vs. CHICAGO
Green Bay is 13-4 SU in its last 17 games on the road
Green Bay is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
Chicago is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Chicago is 4-15 SU in its last 19 games when playing at home against Green Bay

1:00 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Tampa Bay's last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games on the road
New Orleans is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 13 of New Orleans's last 18 games

1:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. CLEVELAND
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games on the road
Cleveland is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Cleveland is 6-17 SU in its last 23 games

1:00 PM
DENVER vs. BALTIMORE
Denver is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
Denver is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
Baltimore is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games
Baltimore is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games

1:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. ST. LOUIS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
Minnesota is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
St. Louis is 5-10 SU in its last 15 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 7 of St. Louis's last 8 games when playing Minnesota

4:05 PM
SEATTLE vs. BUFFALO
Seattle is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Buffalo
Seattle is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Buffalo's last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Buffalo's last 5 games when playing Seattle

4:05 PM
DETROIT vs. ARIZONA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona
Detroit is 2-9-1 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 6 games at home
Arizona is 2-7-1 ATS in its last 10 games

4:05 PM
CAROLINA vs. SAN DIEGO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Carolina's last 5 games
Carolina is 5-17 SU in its last 22 games on the road
San Diego is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 7 of San Diego's last 10 games

4:15 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. OAKLAND
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 5 games
Kansas City is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Oakland is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Oakland's last 7 games when playing at home against Kansas City

4:15 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. DALLAS
Pittsburgh is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 3-8 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Dallas is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Dallas is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh

8:20 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. NEW ENGLAND
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games when playing New England
San Francisco is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing New England
New England is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing San Francisco
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New England's last 5 games when playing San Francisco


Monday, December 17

8:30 PM
NY JETS vs. TENNESSEE
NY Jets are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of the NY Jets last 9 games when playing on the road against Tennessee
Tennessee is 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games when playing NY Jets
Tennessee is 1-5 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Jets

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NFL

Thursday, December 13

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Thursday Night Football: Bengals at Eagles
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Cincinnati Bengals at Philadelphia Eagles (+4, 45.5)

The Cincinnati Bengals let a golden opportunity slip through their fingers against one NFC East team this past weekend. The Bengals would like to prevent the same from happening again on Thursday when they visit the struggling Philadelphia Eagles. Cincinnati's bid to record its fifth straight victory and eighth overall was thwarted by Dallas on the final play. As a result, the Bengals remained two games shy of AFC North-leading Baltimore and a tiebreaker behind Pittsburgh for the final playoff berth in the conference.

Postseason discussion has long been tabled in Philadelphia, which snapped an eight-game losing skid with a 23-21 triumph over Tampa Bay this past weekend. Nick Foles gave the Eagles some confidence for the future by throwing for a rookie franchise-best 381 yards. The third-round pick also engineered the game-winning drive, which was capped by his 1-yard touchdown pass to Jeremy Maclin.

TV: 8:20 p.m. ET, NFL Network.

LINE: Cincinnati opened as a field-goal favorite in Philadelphia and has since been bet up as high as -4.5. The total opened at 46 and has dropped to 45.5.

WEATHER: The forecast is calling for clear skies and temperatures in the mid 30s. Winds will blow NW at 2 mph.

CONSENSUS: Sixty-five percent of Covers Consensus picks are on the Bengals. Fifty-two percent are picking the over.

ABOUT THE BENGALS (7-6, 6-6-1 ATS): Cincinnati stud WR A.J. Green had a pair of inexplicable drops en route to being held out of the end zone for the third time in as many games on Sunday. Prior to this drought, Green had scored in nine straight contests. The Bengals can't afford to dwell on Sunday's loss or look beyond the Eagles, although a visit to Pittsburgh (Dec. 23) and a home game versus Baltimore (Dec. 30) could go a long way in deciding if they make the playoffs.

ABOUT THE EAGLES (4-9, 3-9-1 ATS): Maclin is clearly impressed with Foles, who has just four starts under his belt. "You guys are seeing Nick Foles grow into a phenomenal quarterback right in front of your eyes," Maclin said. "I think the sky is the limit for him." Foles hasn't thrown an interception in the last 14 quarters, although the aggressive Bengals defense could pressure him into mistakes. Cincinnati leads the league with 42 sacks.

TRENDS:

* Bengals are 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings.
* Bengals are 1-7-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a SU loss.
* Eagles are 4-1 ATS in their last five Thursday games.
* Eagles are 7-19-1 ATS in their last 27 home games.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Although Bengals RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis failed to notch his fourth consecutive 100-yard game, he sits just 26 shy of his second straight 1,000-yard season.

2. Philadelphia TE Clay Harbor, who reeled in the first of two touchdown passes by Foles, will likely start on Thursday in place of the concussed Brent Celek.

3. The teams played to a 13-13 tie in their last encounter on Nov. 16, 2008. The game is likely best remembered for then-Eagles QB Donovan McNabb admitting that he didn't know an NFL contest could end in a tie.

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NFL

Thursday, December 13

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Tale of the tape: Cincinnati Bengals at Philadelphia Eagles
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The Philadelphia Eagles will aim to play spoiler when they host the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday Night Football. Find out which side has the edge with our tale of the tape.

Offense

After scoring at least 28 points in three consecutive games the Bengals offense has sputtered over the last couple of weeks, putting up only 39 points combined in splitting two games against the Chargers and Cowboys. Quarterback Andy Dalton has already thrown more interceptions this season (14) than he did in his entire rookie campaign last year (13). Of course, he's also thrown five more touchdown passes. Cincinnati has made a concerted effort to get its ground game rolling and RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis has responded by running for 437 yards over the last four games.

The Eagles offense has shown steady improvement since rookie QB Nick Foles took over for an injured Michael Vick. Last Sunday, Foles threw for a career-high 381 yards and two touchdowns in a come-from-behind win over the Bucs. While RB Bryce Brown had been a force in the previous two weeks, he was held to only six yards on 12 carries in Tampa Bay. They'll need to get him going again with LeSean McCoy expected to miss at least one more game.

Edge: Bengals


Defense

When healthy, the Bengals own one of the more underrated defenses in the entire league. It looks like LB Rey Maualuga will be able to play Thursday after suffering an ankle injury against Dallas. You would have to go all the way back to November 4 to find the last time the Bengals allowed more than 20 points in a game. They've held four of their last five opponents to 13 points or less, paving the way for a five-game under streak.

The Eagles finally stopped the bleeding this past Sunday, holding the Bucs to 21 points after allowing at least 30 in four consecutive games. They limited Bucs QB Josh Freeman to only 14-of-34 passing, but didn't record a single turnover in the win. In fact, they haven't forced a turnover since November 5 in New Orleans. That's a streak that will need to come to an end if they're going to string together a second straight win this week. Corner Nnamdi Asomugha is questionable to play due to a quad injury.

Edge: Bengals


Special teams

Cincinnati has been terrific defending punt returns, holding the opposition to just north of eight yards per return. It has also been effective on the flip side, averaging 11.6 yards per punt return and 22.9 yards per kickoff return. Bengals kicker Mike Nugent is 19 for 23 on field goal attempts this season, but he was forced to miss last week's game due to a calf injury. Josh Brown made good on all four field goal attempts in Nugent's absence last Sunday.

The Eagles fall right around the league average in terms of punt and kick returning, but have struggled defending them, giving up 13.7 yards per punt return and 26 yards per kickoff return. Kicker Alex Henery has been a bright spot, connecting on 23 of 26 field goal attempts.

Edge: Bengals


Word on the street

“We have the opportunity to still control our own end, from now until the end. We still have an opportunity to win the division. We still have an opportunity to qualify for the playoffs in a couple of ways. That’s all we can ask for." -- Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis on his team's playoff prospects following last Sunday's loss to Dallas.

"More important than (playing the spoiler is to) play for yourself. Play for this organization. Those are the things we’re going to try to do right now and we have another good opportunity to do that Thursday." -- Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin on what's left to play for as the season winds down.